The internet has completely changed how we live our lives. Whether it’s streaming your favorite shows in 4K without endless buffering, gaming without lag, or keeping all your smart home gadgets working smoothly, solid Wi-Fi is essential. That’s where Wi-Fi 6 comes in—a game-changing upgrade that makes your internet faster, more reliable, and better equipped to handle all the devices we rely on every day.
If your current router is struggling to keep up with everything from your laptop to your smart fridge (yes, that’s a thing), it’s probably time to level up. Trust me, I’ve been there—wrestling with slow speeds and having to reset my router every other day. Switching to Wi-Fi 6 made a night-and-day difference. Here’s everything you need to know about WiFi 6 routers and how to find the best one for your home.
JUMP LIST
- What is WiFi 6?
- Best Overall Wi-Fi 6 Router
- Best Budget Router
- Best for Gamers
- Best Mesh Routers
- Advantages of Upgrading to Wi-Fi 6
- Top Considerations When Choosing a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
- Tips for Setting Up Your Wi-Fi 6 Router
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What Important Features Should I Look For in a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
- Is It Worth Paying More for a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
- What is a Challenging Wi-Fi Environment?
- Should I Upgrade from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E at This Point?
- Should I Upgrade to a Wi-Fi 6 Router or Just Get a New Wi-Fi 5 Router?
- What is the Best Long Range Non-Mesh Router?
What is WiFi 6?
Okay, let’s keep this simple. WiFi 6 (techies call it 802.11ax) is the latest upgrade to WiFi. Think of it like trading in your old flip phone for a shiny new smartphone—it’s designed to handle everything better, faster, and smarter.
Why Should You Care About WiFi 6?
- Faster Speeds: WiFi 6 delivers speeds up to 9.6 Gbps, which blows WiFi 5 (maxed out at 3.5 Gbps) out of the water. Translation? Faster downloads, smoother streaming, and no more fighting over bandwidth.
- Handles More Devices: Got a house full of smart tech? WiFi 6 is built for homes like yours. It uses MU-MIMO (fancy name for multi-device magic) to keep everything running smoothly at the same time.
- Less Congestion: Live with roommates, family, or neighbors who hog the WiFi? WiFi 6 is better at dividing bandwidth so everyone gets a slice of the pie.
- Saves Battery Life: If you’re like me and hate when your phone or smart gadgets constantly need charging, WiFi 6 has your back with a battery-saving trick called Target Wake Time.
If you’re serious about keeping your internet fast and future-proof for years to come, a WiFi 6 router is the way to go. I upgraded mine last year, and honestly, I wish I’d done it sooner—it’s been a game-changer for my home office and movie nights.
Also read Best Wi-Fi 7 Gaming Router for 2025
Best Overall Wi-Fi 6 Router
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro
For a router that excels at everything—streaming, gaming, and managing smart home devices—the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro stands out as an exceptional option. Engineered for speed, wide coverage, and dependable performance, it’s an ideal choice for families, gamers, and anyone with demanding internet needs.
Price & Best Deals:
Why It’s Great:
- Super Fast Speeds: With up to 5700 Mbps, you’ll enjoy smooth streaming, fast downloads, and lag-free gaming, even with multiple devices connected.
- Gaming-Optimized: A dedicated gaming port and adaptive QoS features prioritize gaming traffic for a seamless experience. It’s compatible with major gaming systems like PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
- Strong Coverage: Ideal for multi-story homes, with powerful signals that reach every corner, thanks to Wi-Fi 6 technology and beamforming.
- Built-In Security: Keeps your devices safe with ASUS AiProtection Pro, blocking online threats and safeguarding your personal data. Plus, parental controls let you manage screen time and online activity for kids.
- Expandability: Compatible with ASUS AiMesh, allowing you to create a seamless whole-home Wi-Fi system by connecting multiple ASUS routers.
Buy If:
This router is perfect for anyone who needs top-notch performance, whether for gaming, streaming, or managing smart home devices. The ASUS Router app makes setup and management super simple, even for non-tech-savvy users. You can monitor network activity, prioritize devices, and update security with just a few taps.
Don’t Buy If:
It’s a bit pricey, so it might not be the best choice if you’re on a budget or only need basic internet for light browsing. Additionally, its advanced features may be overkill for users with minimal network demands.
For anyone ready to invest in a reliable, high-performance router, the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro delivers in every way. Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a streaming enthusiast, or just need fast, secure Wi-Fi for a busy household, this router is up to the task.
Best Budget Router
TP-Link Archer AX55
Looking for a budget router without overspending? The TP-Link AX55 delivers an affordable solution for smaller households or lighter internet use. Combining reliable performance with easy setup, this router is perfect for those who want faster internet for streaming, browsing, or working from home—without breaking the bank.
Price & Best Deals:
Why It’s Great:
- Affordable Wi-Fi 6 Upgrade: Enjoy Wi-Fi 6 technology with maximum speeds up to 3000 Mbps, offering a smoother experience for everyday tasks like streaming, video calls, or online gaming.
- Dual-Band Performance: Supports both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, ensuring faster speeds and reduced interference.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with both new Wi-Fi 6 devices and older devices, ensuring no gadget is left behind.
- Simple Setup: The Tether app walks you through installation in minutes, making it accessible even for non-tech-savvy users.
- MU-MIMO & OFDMA Technology: Handles multiple devices simultaneously, reducing lag and improving efficiency for small-scale networks.
Buy If:
This router is ideal for small spaces and households with moderate internet needs. It’s perfect for streaming HD content, casual gaming, and working remotely while staying within budget.
Don’t Buy If:
The TP-Link AX3000 is better suited for small to medium spaces. Its range and capacity may not handle large homes or households with a heavy number of connected devices effectively.
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly yet dependable Wi-Fi 6 router that delivers consistent daily performance, the TP-Link AX55 dual-band router presents outstanding value. It’s an excellent choice for smaller households or anyone wanting to embrace the future of Wi-Fi without breaking the bank.
Best for Gamers
ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 PRO
For gamers who demand the fastest speeds, lowest lag, and advanced features, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 tri-band router is built to deliver excellent performance. It’s crafted specifically for competitive play, ensuring you have the edge over your opponents.
Price & Best Deals:
Why It’s Great:
- Tri-Band Power: Offers three separate bands—2.4GHz, 5GHz-1, and 5GHz-2—that ensure every device on your gigabit network gets optimal performance without interference, even with heavy traffic.
- Gaming Traffic Priority: With adaptive QoS (Quality of Service), the router prioritizes gaming traffic to minimize lag. Its dedicated gaming port ensures the faster connections for your gaming devices.
- Wi-Fi 6 Technology: Supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, providing faster speeds, better efficiency, and increased capacity to handle multiple devices simultaneously.
- Strong Coverage: With eight high-performance antennas, it can cover large homes or gaming setups, ensuring stable connectivity even in distant corners of your space.
- Secure Gaming: Comes with AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, which protects your network from external threats and vulnerabilities while you play.
- Customizable Features: The router includes ASUS’ game-centric features like Game Boost to reduce latency, VPN Fusion for running a VPN without slowing your gaming speed, and a Game Radar tool to check server status and ping times.
Buy If:
If competitive gaming is your thing, this router offers everything you need for uninterrupted matches and multiplayer fun.
Don’t Buy If:
It’s pricey and might be overkill if you’re a casual gamer or don’t need gaming-specific features. But if you’re all-in on gaming, this one’s for you.
For serious gamers, the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is the ultimate tool to stay ahead of the competition.
Best Mesh Routers
Netgear Orbi AX6000
If you’re dealing with Wi-Fi dead spots or a large home, the Netgear Orbi AX6000 mesh network system is the solution. It uses multiple access points to deliver strong, reliable internet to every room. Designed for modern households with high connectivity demands, it’s an excellent choice for streaming, gaming, and managing smart home devices.
Price & Best Deals:
Why It’s Great:
- Whole-Home Coverage: Mesh technology ensures seamless Wi-Fi throughout your home, even in hard-to-reach areas or multi-level homes.
- Lightning-Fast Speeds: Handles speeds of up to 6 Gbps, perfect for 4K/8K streaming, online gaming, and connecting multiple devices without lag.
- Advanced Technology: Equipped with Wi-Fi 6, it supports more devices simultaneously and offers better efficiency compared to older Wi-Fi standards.
- Built-In Security: Comes with Netgear Armor, which provides advanced cybersecurity features to protect your connected devices from online threats.
- Family-Friendly: Parental controls let you manage internet access and screen time easily, giving you peace of mind with kids online.
Buy If:
It’s perfect for families or anyone needing reliable coverage in a large house. Say goodbye to dead zones, buffering, or weak connections in any part of your home. With the ability to connect dozens of devices, it’s ideal for smart home enthusiasts or households with heavy internet use.
Don’t Buy If:
The higher price tag and slightly more complex setup might not appeal to everyone. However, the system offers a guided setup process via the Orbi app, making it easier than traditional routers. And while it’s an investment, it’s worth every penny for larger households requiring consistent, high-speed internet.
If wireless networks coverage, speed, and reliability are your top concerns, the Netgear Orbi AX6000 is a top-tier mesh network solution to ensure fast, secure, and seamless internet throughout your home.
Advantages of Upgrading to Wi-Fi 6
Still on the fence about upgrading? Let me break it down for you—it’s totally worth it, and here’s why:
- Lightning-Fast Speeds: Whether you’re streaming your favorite show, downloading large files, or gaming online, WiFi 6 makes lag a thing of the past. I upgraded recently, and honestly, it feels like I’ve unlocked a whole new internet level.
- Great for Busy Households: Got a house full of smartphones, tablets, and smart gadgets all fighting for the WiFi? WiFi 6 can handle them all like a pro. In my family, even with five devices running at once, we no longer deal with connection drops during movie night.
- Future-Proof Your Setup: With smart homes becoming more common (hello, voice assistants and smart bulbs), WiFi 6 ensures your network can handle the growing traffic easily. Think of it as prepping your internet for what’s next.
- Save Battery Life: If you’re like me and hate running out of battery mid-day, you’ll love this one. WiFi 6 uses something called TWT (Target Wake Time), which helps extend your device’s battery life.
- Stronger, More Reliable Signal: No more competing with the neighbor’s WiFi or losing connection when everyone’s online. My video calls are finally stable, even during peak hours.
So if you’re tired of buffering, lag, or dropped connections, trust me—WiFi 6 is a game-changer. It’s like upgrading from a bike to a rocket ship!
Top Considerations When Choosing a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
Picking the right WiFi 6 router comes down to what works best for you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before making the leap:
- How Big Is Your Home?
- Do you live in a spacious house or a cozy apartment? For larger homes, I’d suggest going for a mesh WiFi 6 system—it’ll help get rid of those annoying dead zones. If you’re in a smaller or medium-sized space like me, a solid traditional router should do the trick.
- How Many Devices Are You Using?
- Got a house full of smart gadgets—phones, TVs, smart speakers, maybe even a smart fridge? Look for a router designed to handle lots of devices at once. Trust me, life is easier when your WiFi doesn’t crawl to a halt during Netflix binges or Zoom calls.
- What Features Matter Most to You?
- Think about what extras you really need. Parental controls? Super helpful if you’ve got kids. Advanced security? A must for peace of mind in today’s digital world. USB ports for extra storage? Great if you like backing things up locally.
- What’s Your Internet Speed?
- This one’s big. If you’re lucky enough to have gigabit internet (I’m jealous), make sure your router can actually handle those speeds. There’s no point paying for blazing-fast internet if your router can’t keep up!
- What’s Your Budget?
- Wi-Fi 6 routers can cost anywhere from under $200 to over $500. Figure out what you’re comfortable spending and find the sweet spot. Personally, I always look for something that’s a balance of price and features—it doesn’t have to be the fanciest model to work perfectly for your needs.
At the end of the day, the best Wi-Fi 6 router is the one that fits your home, budget, and lifestyle. Happy browsing!
Tips for Setting Up Your Wi-Fi 6 Router
Are you ready for the big leap? Below are some things to remember when setting up your new WiFi 6 router:
- Observe Location: Ensure that your router is placed centrally in order to achieve good coverage. Avoid putting it near appliances or metallic items which will interfere with the signal.
- Ensure Network Security: To enhance overall safety, select a powerful and distinct password and engage WPA/WPA2 encryption.
- Update Firmware: This will help improve security and performance by making sure the firmware of your router is updated.
- Optimize Some Settings: Use functionalities such as QoS (Quality of Service) so as to have certain devices or applications given priority over others hence enhancing performance.
- Know How The App Works: Majority of WiFi 6 routers come along with an app that makes them easy to set up and manage. Just take time to explore its features and settings for maximum benefits out of your new router.
You can now enjoy faster internet connectivity which is more stable if you apply these hints. Enjoy surfing!
Conclusion
Upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 router is more than just keeping up with technology—it’s about transforming your internet experience. With faster speeds, better coverage, and the ability to handle multiple devices seamlessly, Wi-Fi 6 caters to the demands of modern households. Whether you’re gaming competitively, streaming in 4K, managing a smart home, or working remotely, a Wi-Fi 6 router ensures you stay connected without interruptions.
From budget-friendly options like the TP-Link AX55 to performance powerhouses like the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro, there’s a router for every need and budget. By investing in Wi-Fi 6, you’re future-proofing your home network for years to come, ensuring it’s ready to handle the growing demands of connected devices and evolving internet speeds.
So, whether you’re tired of buffering during movie nights, dropped video calls, or dead zones in your home, a Wi-Fi 6 router is the solution you’ve been waiting for. It’s not just an upgrade—it’s a game-changer for how you live, work, and play online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Important Features Should I Look For in a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
When selecting a best Wi-Fi 6 router, there are several key features that can significantly impact your overall user experience. Here are the most important aspects to consider:
Speed and Bandwidth: Look for routers that offer higher throughput rates, ideally supporting up to 9.6 Gbps. This is particularly important if you have multiple devices connected, as it enables faster speeds across the board.
Dual-Band vs. Tri-Band: Depending on your usage, you may want to opt for a tri-band router that can handle more devices effectively. While dual-band routers are suitable for most households, tri-band devices are beneficial for heavy users, as they help to reduce congestion.
Coverage Area: Ensure the router can cover your entire home. Features like beamforming technology can help direct the signal towards your devices, increasing range and reliability.
Number of Ports: Check for multiple Ethernet ports, including any multi-gig ports for wired connections. If you plan to connect devices like gaming consoles or PCs via wired connections, a router with adequate ports can enhance performance.
Security Features: Opt for routers that come with built-in security protocols like WPA3 and advanced firewall capabilities to protect your network from unauthorized access.
QoS Settings: Quality of Service (QoS) settings allow you to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or applications, which can be especially useful for gaming or video streaming.
Is It Worth Paying More for a Wi-Fi 6 Router?
Yes, investing in a Wi-Fi 6 router is generally worth it, particularly if you have a smart home with multiple devices requiring stable connections. Wi-Fi 6 offers improved speeds, better coverage, advanced security features, and enhanced performance in crowded environments. If you’m already experiencing slow speeds or connection drops with your current setup, upgrading can result in a noticeable improvement.
What is a Challenging Wi-Fi Environment?
A challenging Wi-Fi environment refers to situations where your wireless signals face significant disruption or interference. This can occur in multi-story homes, densely populated areas (like apartments), or spaces filled with physical obstructions (like walls and furniture). A challenging Wi-Fi environment necessitates a router with strong coverage and features designed to minimize dead spots, such as mesh systems or high-powered antennas.
Should I Upgrade from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E at This Point?
While Wi-Fi 6E introduces access to the 6 GHz band, which allows for more channels and reduced interference, upgrading from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E at this stage may not be necessary for everyone. If your current devices do not support Wi-Fi 6E, or if your internet usage does not demand the higher frequency, you might not notice a substantial difference. However, if you are looking for future-proofing and have compatible devices, it could be a worthwhile investment.
Should I Upgrade to a Wi-Fi 6 Router or Just Get a New Wi-Fi 5 Router?
If you are looking for better performance, coverage, and security, upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 router is recommended over purchasing a Wi-Fi 5 router. Wi-Fi 6 routers provide significant advancements in speed and connectivity efficiency and are designed to handle the growing number of connected devices in modern households.
What is the Best Long Range Non-Mesh Router?
For long-range coverage without moving to a mesh system, the ASUS RT-AX88U is often regarded as one of the best options. It features robust signal strength, a range of advanced settings, and excellent multi-device performance. Its dual-band capabilities and multiple Ethernet ports make it a versatile choice for users requiring extensive coverage without sacrificing speed.
